Police Trust Fund seeks better funding to tackle insecurity

The Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) has formally requested the Senate to increase its statutory allocation from 0.5% to 1%. This move aims to bolster police operations and modernize law enforcement capabilities to combat the escalating insecurity across the country. The request was presented during a public hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Police Affairs concerning a bill to repeal and reenact the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act of 2019.

Mohammed Sheidu, the Executive Secretary of the NPTF, stated that the proposal has already received approval from the National Police Council, chaired by President Bola Tinubu. Council members, including state governors, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, and the Inspector-General of Police, concurred on the necessity of sustainable funding to address threats like kidnapping, terrorism, and cybercrime. The additional funding is earmarked for deploying advanced surveillance systems, drones, forensic laboratories, command-and-control centers, and other essential digital policing tools.

Sheidu emphasized that these technological investments are no longer optional but are critical necessities for effective policing in the 21st century. He also urged lawmakers to remove the "sunset clause" from the current law, arguing that long-term funding stability is crucial for strategic projects and for attracting support from development partners and the private sector. The proposed legislation aims to create additional funding streams through international grants, development levies, intervention funds, private sector contributions, and philanthropic donations.

Furthermore, the NPTF welcomed provisions designed to enhance transparency and accountability through broader board representation, mandatory reporting, and stronger oversight mechanisms. The Fund's five-year plan includes ambitious goals such as building more smart police stations, establishing police reference hospitals in six geopolitical zones, expanding training programs, and implementing housing schemes for officers. Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the NPTF's significant contributions to police training and infrastructure since its establishment, while stressing that evolving security challenges necessitate stronger institutions and sustainable funding.

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These are no longer optional investments; they are necessities for effective policing in the 21st century.